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With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, researchers are raising concerns about the risk of extreme heat in many of the 16 North American host cities, including Toronto.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Biometeorology found that 14 out of the 16 host cities experience temperatures that are too hot for safe soccer play at least some of the time in June and July—the months when the tournament is scheduled to take place.
“We examined the risk of extreme heat by modeling Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT)—a widely used measure of heat stress—for the host locations using hourly meteorological data from 2003 to 2022,” said Madeleine Orr, an assistant professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education and a co-author of the study.
“Our results show that 14 out of 16 host locations exceed WBGTs of 28°C, with some surpassing this threshold more than half the time during afternoon hours.”
This threshold is significant, as it represents the level at which some football governing bodies recommend delaying or postponing matches to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Calls for Schedule Adjustments
Based on these findings, researchers are urging FIFA to consider rescheduling matches to avoid the hottest parts of the day in the highest-risk cities. Cities such as Miami, Monterrey, Philadelphia, Kansas City, Boston, and New York are among the most vulnerable locations without indoor, air-conditioned stadiums.
“We are calling for stronger heat policies at the FIFA World Cup to protect players, referees, staff, and fans,” Orr emphasized. “Additionally, our study highlights the importance of assessing heat risks ahead of any major sporting event to help guide necessary interventions.”
Notably, in 2022, the FIFA World Cup in Qatar was moved from summer to winter due to concerns over extreme heat.
Future Considerations for Major Sporting Events
As climate change intensifies, extreme heat is becoming an increasing concern for outdoor sporting events. The study suggests that governing bodies, tournament organizers, and host cities should work together to develop comprehensive heat management plans to mitigate risks for athletes and spectators alike.
The research was conducted by an international team, including scientists from the University of Toronto, and was led by Donal Mullan. The full study can be found in the International Journal of Biometeorology.
Disclaimer: This article is based on published research and expert analysis. FIFA has yet to announce any official changes to the 2026 World Cup schedule in response to these findings.
